Now she had him at an advantage, for however great his fear was of her father, she had none at all.
“Oh, yes,” she replied, smiling, “and he is perfectly furious.”
As she saw his face fall she would have reassured him, but just then a moan of anguish from the alcove made him turn his head inquiringly.
“It is the little Mooney girl,” she answered, in reply to his unspoken question. “It is some dreadful disease of the bone, but father hopes to be able to help her.”
“Poor little girl,” said John, as he offered her a cluster of gorgeous roses that he had brought with him.
Lola took the flowers with a word of thanks, as the Doctor threw open the curtains and entered with his arm about Nellie, and followed by Mrs. Mooney.
“There,” he exclaimed, “it is over now. You are a brave girl, Nellie. You must bring her again on Saturday, Mrs. Mooney.”
“You are not faint, are you, Nellie?” said Lola, alarmed at the child’s paleness.
“Oh, no, Miss,” replied Nellie bravely, her eyes fastened with wondering admiration on the beautiful roses.
“Take them,” said Lola impulsively, holding them out to her, but she shrank back, afraid.